gua sha & cupping
Gua Sha in Gloucester
Gua sha (which means “to rub/press redness”) is an additional technique often used alongside acupuncture.
It is used to resolve muscle spasms, pain, improve circulation, support the immune system, and increases blood flow to the area. The patient can experience positive changes from treatment immediately.
A gua sha tool is used to give firm, even stroking to bring about a release of small pin-prick changes in the skin (petichiae). At first these can look quite startling, and indeed the amount and colour of the “sha” produced can be used to provide valuable information about the patient’s condition.
The skin colour change that is brought about in response to the treatment usually disappears after 3 days.
Gua sha is designed to mimic sweating, and accordingly can help to reduce fever.
After treatment, the patient is advised to eat moderately, stay hydrated, and keep the treated area protected from wind, cold, and direct sunlight until the sha fades.
Cupping
This method involves applying glass or plastic suction cups to areas of the body – mainly across the back – to improve circulation and ease relaxation.
Like gua sha it can leave a mark for some days afterwards that vary in colour from pale to dark red/purple. This is painless and resolves within a week. Similar after care to gua sha is advised – eat moderately, stay hydrated, and keep the area protected from and cold especially after treatment.
Cupping has been popularised in recent years through high-profile athletes using them to complement their sports training.
